A Process Guide for Reasonable Accommodations

When hiring persons with disabilities, employers often have questions about accommodations. The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) require that employers make reasonable accommodations for applicants or employees with physical or mental disabilities who are qualified to do the job.

Vocational rehabilitation counselors play a key role by helping employers interact with jobseekers/employees asking for accommodations. As part of the hiring process, VR counselors can help employers see an applicant’s credentials and competence, rather than focusing on the disability.

The Northwest ADA Center created a process guide for vocational rehabilitation counselors to use when assisting employers and jobseekers/employees who are seeking accommodations. It’s an easy-to-use form to gather information about the employee/applicant, job qualifications, accommodation options and includes a checklist for negotiating a reasonable accommodation.

The guide also includes links to sites that can provide in-depth answers to more specific questions.